Welcome to Washington Day Set for This Saturday

A Welcome to Washington Day for newcomers will be held this Saturday, Feb. 23, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church in Washington, 4834 South Point Road.

Displays, brochures and information will be available from a variety of groups and organizations.

Participants will be able to learn about voter registration, library cards, YMCA membership, parks department programs, city services, senior center activities, United Way services for families, local attractions, events and areas of interest.

The following organizations will be represented:

City of Washington and Parks Department;

Downtown Washington Inc.;

Franklin County Area United Way;

Franklin County Clerk’s office;

Four Rivers Area YMCA;

Washington Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Department;

Washington Historical Society;

Washington Public Library; and

Washington Senior Center.

“The purpose of this event is to provide information on Washington to people just moving to our area,” said Paula Obermark, executive director of the Franklin County Area United Way, which will have a display.

Local residents also will be on hand to answer questions, Obermark said.

Obermark credits Judy Bierbaum, a member of the Presbyterian Church, with coming up with the idea.

Bierbaum was born and raised here, but moved away after getting married. When the couple came back in retirement she noted it was difficult to relocate and find out where everything was and what all was available in the community.

“We started talking about wouldn’t it be great to have a one-stop shop for people to learn about the community,” Obermark said. “From there the idea just grew and it’s become a combined effort of a lot people.”

If the day is successful, the group may consider making it an annual event.

“We just feel it’s a really good way to get people acquainted and feel comfortable in our beautiful city,” Obermark said.

For more information or to register, people may call 636-432-1293. Registration is not required.